Abstract: Micro-fluid devices and methods for their use are provided. The subject devices are characterized by the presence of at least one micro-valve comprising a phase reversible material, e.g. a reversible gel, that reversibly changes its physical state in response to an applied stimulus, e.g. a thermoreversible gel. In using the subject device, fluid flow along a flow path of the device is modulated by applying an appropriate stimulus, e.g. changing the temperature, to the microvalve. The subject devices find use in a variety of applications, including micro-analytical applications.

Abstract: An apparatus for collecting samples from capillary electrophoresis (CE) for matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry (MS) is disclosed. The apparatus has a capillary, a metallic support, a porous member, and a power supply for applying an electrical potential between the porous member and an inlet end of the capillary to drive the sample through the capillary during CE. The capillary transmits a sample from the inlet end to the exit end during capillary electrophoresis. The metallic support supports the porous membrane such that the porous membrane contacts the capillary exit end during CE. The metallic support (with the porous membrane) is suitable for placing in a mass spectrometer to act as a repeller for MALDI. The porous member has at least a portion thereof that is generally concentric with the capillary exit end and contacts the porous membrane during CE.

Abstract: A method is provided for detecting an analyte of interest in a sample. The method involves binding the analyte to the surface of a substrate through a biotin-biotin binding protein interaction, contacting the surface-bound analyte with a quantitatively detectable analyte-binding moiety that binds thereto, measuring the quantity of detectable moiety bound to the substrate surface and deriving therefrom the quantity of analyte in solution. A preferred use for the present method is in conjunction with a piezoelectric surface transverse wave device. Novel reagents useful for carrying out the inventive method are provided as well.

Abstract: Disclosed are pH dyes containing a suitable compatible substituent which permits binding of the dye to a solid support. Also disclosed are methods for synthesizing such dyes prior to their coupling to the solid supports.

Abstract: Disclosed are pH dyes containing a suitable compatible substituent which permits binding of the dye to a solid support. Also disclosed are methods for synthesizing such dyes prior to their coupling to the solid supports.

Abstract: Boronic dyes corresponding to the formula ##STR1## wherein D is an organic dye moiety, and n is 1 or 2 are described. Inks which are formulated for ink-jet printing and contain such a dye provide excellent images when printed on paper.